If you want to record music with the Ubuntu GNU/Linux system, Ubuntu Studio will make the installation of the programs needed much easier, and get you started with just a few clicks. As well as audio programs, video and graphics programs are also part of Ubuntu Studio.

Apart from a computer, the music programs installed with Ubuntu Studio and an instrument, you will need something to interface between your instruments and the computer and an external USB sound card can do just that.

I just refretted my Fender Jazz Bass and documented the process, in case somebody else out there is also thinking about doing it.

It might initially seem like an impossible task, but if you research the subject (there are loads of stuff on the internet about refretting) and practice on disposable guitar necks before moving on, it really isn't.

If you want to refret an instrument yourself, you will probably have to invest in some new tools, since some of the tools needed are fairly specialized. Most of them can be bought on the internet or you can make them yourself, to help keep expenses down.

These are the tools I used for my first three refrets -- the price of the professional fretting tool is put in parentheses, after the name of the tool.